A/N: Wooooh! HUGE THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO FOLLOW/FAVORITE/REVIEW THIS STORY OR ME! Like I've said it makes me pumped and extremely excited. :)

DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN THIS AMAZING SHOW OR ITS CHARACTERS. *Sobs*

Chapter 9: The Date

''You think you're safe? You think we're done with you? How cute…''

Alaura stepped back and looked around, icy fear trailing down her back when she recognized the voice. They hadn't visited her ever since she and Liz joined Homra and they killed that monster so-so why were they back?

''Stay away!" She ordered, standing tall and looking out into the darkness.

The demons appeared slowly, slithering around her in a large circle. She eyed them warily and readied herself for an attack.

''Oh…so you're not afraid of us anymore?" One stopped from circling her and looked at her through its hollow eyes.

Alaura gulped but glared furiously. ''I've become stronger, I won't let you take me! I'm not yours.''

Its mouth opened as a cackle left it, though the head didn't move at all. Alaura looked away in disgust and cringed.

''But you ARE ours…as long as your memories are sealed we can't play with your soul's pain, but know we're STARVING to feast upon you.''

Alaura gasped, starting forward but snapping back when it leered at her hungrily. ''Wha-what does that mean? My soul, you want my soul?"

The things pulled back, breaking their circle around her and glaring at what was behind her. They snapped and hissed, the aura they gave off deathly. The one who had been speaking for them growled.

Alaura twisted around, eyes widening when she saw Mikoto standing right behind her, his hands in his pocket as he slowly rested his chin on her shoulder.

''You can't have her.'' He stated, smirking at the demons.

"Fool!'' The demon cried, jaw unhinging and saliva dripping from its mouth. ''We will have her soul! She is destined to be ours as soon as her mind shatters when she remembers her brother's death!''

Alaura shook at the mention of Jacob: that memory had weakened her body hours before she had received it-would she break when it hit her full force?

Two arms slithered around her waist and rested on her stomach. Her brown orbs looked over to see Mikoto tilting his head at the demons before red engulfed the both of them, causing the demons to shriek as it burnt ones who were too close.

''She's not yours.''

Alaura's eyes shot open as sunlight coated the room that was Mikoto's, her heart racing with what those things had told her. They would take her soul the moment she remembered her brother's death; feast on her pain and suffering as if they were starved.

That wouldn't happen though, not if she had anything to say about it. Maybe she shouldn't believe 'demons' in her brain but after everything she had been exposed to nothing was impossible now. The question of why there were demons even in her head waiting could be asked, but she knew no one could answer that. Except…

Master Ichigen-would you have known? You sealed my memories didn't you? Did you encounter those…demons while doing so?

She groaned and dragged herself up into a sitting position, the sheets pooling around her waist. Her hair was insanely wavy today from sleeping on it while it was wet, the ends curling slightly at being smooshed.

Mikoto saved me again…her eyes closed as she smiled peacefully and ran her hand through her hair to rid the tangles. She knew she never had to be afraid of those demons if she had him. I miss you, you idiot.

''A…laura?" A groggy voice from beside her alerted her to the other person in the bed with her. Pushing aside the black soft sheets from the lump she smiled when Anna's crimson gaze came into view.

''Good morning sleepy head.'' She smiled, making a mental note to talk to Liz and the others as soon as possible about her dream. If something happened she wanted to make sure they were safe from her.

I don't know what I'll do if I snap.

''What time did you and Liz get home?" The girl asked quietly, pulling herself up and rubbing at her eyes tiredly.

Alaura stood up from the bed and slipped on her slippers as she slid on silver bands on her fingers, one on her thumb on her left hand and one on her middle finger on her right hand. Flexing her fingers she clasped a necklace around her neck that had a small pearl on it.

She usually never took off her jewelry, each piece special to her. But before her workout sessions she made it a point to remove each one carefully and had left it on the nightstand before leaving.

The pearl necklace fell into the valley of her breasts on top of her shirt, and she pulled her hands away with a smile.

The pearl necklace had been an amazing birthday present when she was twelve, and with it came the memory that not only had Liz, Kuroh, and Master Ichigen had gotten it for her-but Jacob as well.

Her two rings were gifts from Liz and Kuroh, a joint gift after they found out they had gotten her the same thing.

To say they were pleased was an understatement, but she was too busy laughing to stop their bickering.

''We got home pretty late now that I think about it, around midnight?" She guessed, reaching out her hand as Anna grasped for it while putting on her slippers.

''Oh. You were in my dream last night.''

''Was I? Was I as awesome as I am now?"

Anna giggled behind her hand. ''You made us breakfast and Yata ate everything, Liz threw him out of a window while Tatara cried into your apron and you tried to put out a fire Liz had set to the plates. Yata tried to eat his board and Liz stole it, but they broke Kusanagi's bar and he burst into tears.''

Alaura blinked before bursting into laughter as they walked down the stairs. ''What were you and Mikoto doing?"

''Mikoto was trying to help you put out the fire, but he caught on fire and forgot how to use his power's while running around the table. You asked me to try to help him but had to tackle him and yell for him to stop drop and roll. I took pictures of everyone.''

Alaura's sides were beginning to hurt as she sat next to Anna on the couch, pulling her legs up beneath her as her laughs escaped her.

''Th-that's perfect!" She wheezed, imagining the looks of every one.

Anna smiled as she looked up at the laughing brunette. She had dreamt that after Alaura had come back and had felt the woman press a kiss to her head. It was an unusual feeling to have someone be so motherly towards her, but she enjoyed it greedily.

Anna never wanted to lose her or Liz.

''I wish I could show you the pictures.'' Anna said, causing Alaura to stop her giggles and wipe away at the tears that had formed.

''I wish I could have had that dream!'' She exclaimed, throwing her hands in the air and falling into another laughing fit at the thought.

''I should have known it was you, there's only one laugh that could make a statue move.''

Alaura and Anna looked over to see Liz at the bottom of the stairs, wearing a white shirt with blue striped boxers while her hair looked like a chaotic mess on her head.

The brunette smirked. ''You got a problem with my laugh?"

''When it wakes me up, fuck yeah.''

''Rude ass.''

''Bite me fucker.''

''If you bathe.'' Alaura teased.

Liz snapped back, eyes widening before her lips turned down into a playful scowl. ''I bathe more than you, Loser.'' She plopped down on the couch across from them and stretched languidly.

''There's so much activity, so early…I'm not used to all of it.'' A mumbled groan joined the fray and Alaura saw Izumo running his hand through his hair as he came down fully dressed. He walked over to the Bar doors and unlocked them for the other guys of Homra that were to come no doubt.

''Almost everyone is awake!'' She cried loudly, too loudly if Liz's wince was anything to go by.

''Alaura tone it doooown, why are you so peppy?" Liz curled up on her side and buried her face into the cushion of the couch.

''Because when Yata and the others get here I'm going to make breakfast!"

Liz moved so fast Alaura almost couldn't keep up with her, the girl was on her knees suddenly gripping her collar and staring wide eyed at her.

''You're making breakfast?"

"Uh…yes?"

''What exactly?"

"Um...pancakes with bacon and eggs? Maybe some sliced fruit…I've wanted to whip up something from home we had a lot.'' She smiled. Kuroh and her had always expanded their knowledge of other countries foods and spent countless hours whipping up to find their favorite.

Liz's lower lip wobbled at the mention before her eyes narrowed. ''I have to share the fucking bacon, don't I?''

''Well yes Hun, that's how it works.''

''Damn it all.''

''I'm excited,'' Anna butted in, smiling at the mention of food. ''I'm hungry.''

Hearing this Alaura stood abruptly, making Liz scramble back and fall on her ass.

''Alright! Izumo, text the guys and find out how many are up and ready to eat while I go get dressed. Liz-Anna, get ready! We're going to the store!"

''You don't have to be so dramatic you know.'' Izumo muttered, grinning regardless and making the required calls.

Liz shot up and puffed out her chest. ''This is a huge moment to be dramatic! Captain Alaura-how much time do we have to get dressed?!"

Catching on to the joking atmosphere Alaura scooped up Anna and held the giggling child bridal style. ''.5 seconds!"

''A demanding feat, Captain!"

''I believe wholeheartedly in you crew! Onwards with vigor!"

''Argh!"

The three girls shot up the stairs, giggling messes as the sounds of hurried footsteps and peals of laughter filled the early morning. Tatara exited his room, rubbing at his eyes sleepily as he walked down the steps fully dressed.

''Geez, what's all the ruckus about?" He smiled through a yawn.

''Just you guys? Yeah-that's right. Alaura is making breakfast…No, she's taking Liz with her…Well call her and complain to her yourself…uh huh, yup! What I thought.'' Izumo clicked end on the call with Yata, grinning at the fear that the boy had showed when he said to call and complain.

Alaura and Liz had quickly wormed their way into their clan, Liz bonding with the guys easily with her fiery personality and sarcastic comments. Her and Yata's blooming relationship also helped, since she was equally proud of Homra as all of them. She never let it cloud her vision though and was able to pull Yata away when she thought he would get hurt.

Alaura was a different story. If the guys did get into fights she didn't agree with she ended it with just a side look, and many of the guys referred to her as 'Miss Alaura.' Izumo figured it had to do with because it was obvious she cared for Mikoto and him for her, but after a while he got the vibe the others-

''Hey Izumo, you there?"

Alaura grinned as she waved a hand in front of the man's face, shaking her head when she saw him snap back to attention.

She had thrown on a white v-neck and a black high waist skirt that came just above her knees, and wore slightly heeled flats. Her hair was left as a wild mane but she had a hair band on her wrist just in case.

Anna was in her signature red and black clothing, but had opted to not wear the hat today. She had asked Alaura to pull her hair back in a braid and she was seriously about to die of how cute the girl was.

Liz was wearing dark wash jeans and a simple, white flowy blouse that had a swooping neckline with floral embroidery down the middle in black. She wore low rise converse that had been scuffed up from years of usage.

''Wow, that was fast.'' He blinked.

Alaura pulled back and rested her hand on her hip, looking down at the girl who held her left. "I said .5 seconds, but sadly it wasn't meant to be.''

"We were so close, only a hundred seconds over.'' Liz grumbled playfully, before picking up her over the shoulder purse from the bar and tossing Alaura hers.

The girl caught it and threw it over. ''Alright, so who's all coming?"

Izumo looked up in thought. ''Yata is coming, so is Rikio, then Bando and Akagi. That's all.''

Alaura's eyebrows furrowed. ''Eric isn't coming?"

Tatara looked over, interested. ''You know Eric?"

The brunette smiled and nodded. ''Yeah-he left a mess the other day and I tracked him down. I found out he's from America like my father but moved to Japan, his Japanese is good.''

''So you're from America?!"

''You speak two languages?!"

Alaura started and grinned awkwardly. ''Guys I was born and raised in Japan, but do we not say my name and my brother's? My father was from the states while my mother was from Japan. Yes I speak English and Japanese, my parents wanted me to appreciate my roots.''

Tatara looked at Liz in confusion. ''Are you from America?"

''Nope, born and raised in Japan!''

''Well we just keep finding out new things about you guys!" The wounded man laughed lightly.

Smiling to herself Alaura tugged on Anna's hand and gestured to Liz to head for the door. ''Well after all this King business we'll give you guys our life stories-beware they're boring.''

In front of her Liz laughed. ''Oh yeah, totally boring. Don't lie to them.''

''They kinda are don't you think? I mean I don't think they're boring but others might!"

''Hell no, between the five of us in that house there was never a dull or quiet moment.''

''Hmm, that's true. Remember when you broke Kuroh's favorite tea set?"

''Oh damn Alaura I still have nightmares of that!" Liz shivered, though her blue eyes were bright as she relived the memory. ''He looked so done, 'Tea is a valuable asset that soothes the most complicated nerves' I felt so bad until we started training.''

Alaura waved back to the guys as they left to walk to the market, the three girls continuing their conversation as Liz stood on Alaura's right.

"What do you think?" Izumo asked quietly, cleaning out a glass. The bar was silent now-but it wouldn't be long until it was full once more.

Tatara smiled from his place on the couch as he looked at a picture they had taken Sunday before the girls left:

Everyone was crowded around his hospital bed-Anna sitting at the foot and smiling lightly, Rikio was kneeling on the left side towards the bottom and smirking widely, Yata was half sitting half standing on the right side with Liz leaning into his side, both of their cheeks pink as they grinned cheekily for the picture. Kusanagi stood on Tatara's right leaning casually, the corner of his lip pulled up. Alaura stood on his left and her eyes were closed as they caught her mid laugh, something she had seen between Yata and Liz. Mikoto stood behind her, a small smile in place as he looked into the camera.

Liz had been the one to insist on taking the picture until Alaura mentioned she would be in it too. Excited everyone had agreed and argued over where they should go until Tatara and Alaura had rearranged everyone.

They had another picture together-but Mikoto was looking into the camera in this one.

Gentle smile in place Tatara set the picture into a frame he had bought from the Hospital's gift store. It was a cherry wood and he got up to set it on top of the bookshelves.

The boy stepped back to admire the new photo. ''I think they're a good fit for us…just watch, Kusanagi-it'll all work out.''

Alaura listened to the sounds of the cars roaring by them, horns honking and the chatter of the people around them growing to be heard. It was a beautiful day out-sunny but slightly cool so you wouldn't sweat.

They had already finished shopping and were on their way back to the bar, bags of groceries in each of their hands. Liz had splurged and bought them all iced lemonade and they had to fix themselves to be able to hold both items.

Alaura looked down at the sidewalk, a small frown forming on pale pink lips.

I have to tell them all about those demons…if something happens to me-if I break-if those nasty fucks try to take over…they need to-

''Alaura? Helloooo?"

Snapping from her thoughts the brunette looked up to see they were already in front of the bar, Yata was staring at her weirdly while he took the groceries from Liz and Anna. Rikio was offering to take the groceries from her and the way they were looking at her she must have blanked for a while.

Chuckling she handed over the bags and walked through the doors, feeling Anna release her hand to walk over to the couch and sit next to Tatara.

''How is everyone?" She smiled widely, putting her thoughts on the back burner as she followed the two boys into the back where the kitchen was.

This building was huge, and she had learned that the bar was in the front of the building while the living area was upstairs and towards the back.

''Tired!" Bando.

''Staaaaarving Miss Alaura!" Akagi.

"You've got a full house, need my help?" Liz asked, popping up and pulling groceries from the bags.

Alaura paused in pulling out the pineapple-realizing she had to tell Liz before anyone else.

''Actually, yeah. '' She shooed out the guys and closed the door to the kitchen, effectively securing their privacy.

''Is something wrong? You've been funny all morning at the store.'' Liz questioned, pausing in turning on the heat to the stove to watch her.

The brunette shuffled her feet back and forth, not looking forward to this moment. Liz had a good temper but she was extremely hostile when things fucked with her family.

''I uh, need to tell you something important.'' Her gaze flickered down at her shoes before she raised them to her friend's.

The azure eyed girl frowned before shaking her head. ''What's wrong?"

Alaura breathed in deeply. ''The nights after Tatara's almost death…I started having these dreams. I was being chased by these demons and they kept saying I was theirs. I always felt like I was looking for something, like I had to find them or else I would be caught.''

''Well after Homra they stopped completely. I didn't even give it a moment's thought, but last night they showed up again. They said that the moment I remember Jacob's death my mind is going to snap and they'll take me. Mikoto always shows up in the dreams and the demons-they're scared of him. They argue, claiming I'm theirs while Mikoto says I'm not.''

The entire time she told her story she was watching Liz's face, seeing her eyes darken with every passing moment.

''I don't know if that'll happen-I managed to pull myself back. But I think they're weakening my body trying to make me lose power to fight it off. If that happens…if I snap….you need to protect everyone and ki-''

''Shut up you idiot!"

Alaura started, eyes widening when she saw Liz threatening her with…a pineapple?

"Liz, you have to protect everyone and-''

''No! Be quiet Alaura, I protect you. I won't kill you because there isn't a chance in hell those demons are going to take you. I'm not losing you to a couple of inner demons, fuck that.'' Liz glared furiously and waved around the pineapple. ''You and the others saved me! Are you insane? What in the fucks world made you think for a moment I would agree to this? Any of us?"

Alaura covered her mouth with her hand as she laughed softly.

''You're laughing? Gods my best friend is such a weirdo.''

"No, no.'' Her eyes closed as she smiled. ''I'm just happy to know you love me so much you would threaten me with a pineapple.''

…

''Have to keep it original you kno-''

CRASH!

"Oh!"

Alaura jumped back as the door caved in, grunts and moans of pain following after. She looked down at her feet to see everyone piled on top of another.

Rikio was spread eagle and his glasses had fallen off in the fall, Bando and Akagi were on top of him wincing, Yata was on top of Kusanagi who was rubbing his head while Tatara and Anna were on the top, safe from any weight but still surprised from the fall.

Alaura raised a brow and cocked her hip out. ''My my, seems we have a bunch of nosy bodies.''

Tatara pulled himself and Anna up and shook his head. ''How could you think any of us would kill you?"

''Yeah!" Yata snapped up and stepped on Rikio who coughed as he moved over. ''No way could we kill the mom of Homra huh? Who else would kick all our asses?"

A deadly smirk crossed her lips as she crossed her arms. ''Keep talking maybe I'll snap right now.''

''But really Alaura,'' Liz came over to her side and smiled softly. ''I'd die before having to kill you-you're my sister and I won't give up on you.''

''Alaura-'' Anna came over and gripped her hand, pulling her attention to her.

''Yes Anna?"

''-Mikoto would never let you go.''

"Hmph.'' Alaura started, eye lids lowering as a soft smirk pulled on her lips. Of course-how could he slip her mind in this whole mess? If he saved her in her dreams then there wasn't a moment of hesitation in believing he would let her snap peacefully.

Looking around at the people who were smiling back at her, offering their strength to her and not scoffing at her nightmares, her eyes brightened and she laughed. What a silly idea for her to think they would ever give up on her.

They were too stubborn to.

''All of you out, out! Liz and I have to make breakfast!"

Thank you.

Liz's knee was bouncing up and down as she sat on Alaura's bed waiting for the brunette to come out of the bathroom. Her heart felt like it was lodged in her throat as she recalled the reason why she was here.

(flash back)

''Liz!"

Said girl stopped her ascend on the stairs, turning to look over to see Yata at the bottom of the stairs. His face was the color of his jacket and she felt her own cheeks turn pink at the sight of him.

''What's up, Yata?"

Homra's front line leader coughed into his fist and breathed in through his nose deeply. Spending breakfast this morning with her and the others had been fun, they laughed so hard and multiple people snorted out their drinks from their noses.

But…he ah, he really wanted to spend time alone with her too.

''I was thinking,'' he shuffled before gathering his courage up. Gripping the railing he rushed the words out. ''Could we go on our date tonight?! It's just this morning was really awesome but I want to be alone with you!"

Liz blinked as her mind tried to register his words. ''You want to be alone with me?"

Mistaking her look Yata waved his hands hurriedly. ''Not like that! I mean-not that I don't want to do THAT with you I just respect you and I would NEVER push you for it but-I mean I just, urgh…'' the flustered boy lowered his head as his shoulders dropped.

He was hopeless, being around other girls didn't even make him nervous anymore. It was like they weren't even there really, but with Liz he still got nervous and all hot.

The blue eyed girl felt her cheeks burn at what Yata had said about…them doing-that. Pushing past her shock she felt excitement. He wanted to go on their date tonight because he wanted it to just be them.

''I would like that a lot, Yata.''

''What?" Hazel eyes snapped up in disbelief. Had she not just heard his total fail of asking her on a date? Hell, the first time had gone better.

Blue eyes shined with pure excitement as she chewed on the inside of her cheek. ''What time?"

Yata's gaped like a fish before he grinned cheekily and stood straight, rubbing the back of his neck as his other hand rested on his hip. ''Um, seven? Is that alright?"

Liz nodded. ''I can't wait.''

"Yeah, me too.''

(end flash back)

Now here she was waiting to tell her best friend who was taking her shower early after cleaning up the kitchen. She had refused all of their offers of help and kicked them out while she fixed the door and the mess it left.

Kusanagi had nearly fainted when he realized that a piece of wood barely missed his precious bar.

At the thought of this morning she scoffed. How could Alaura think for a moment they wouldn't help her fight those ass fucks in her head? She didn't know the first thing about demons in minds, but she would ask Kuroh about it.

Master Ichigen had taught them all about the 'mystical' side of the world, where people dabbled in seals and spells. Of course they never put much thought into it growing up but they did learn it for their Master's sake.

Look at how real it all was. She laughed at the irony. The very seals she had squinted at were currently protecting her best friend.

Kuroh had been the one more interested in the majority of it, Alaura more interested in the healing aspect of it, while she and Jacob liked learning all the defensive and offensive ways it could be used.

They all excelled and were weak in a subject, so being a team always helped. Of course they never practiced it but Liz had just assumed it was because Master himself knew it wasn't real-that he just taught it so they would know of ancient ways.

It's because they were real, and I bet Master was worried we would actually be able to pull it off.

''Hey there dork, what are you grinning about?"

Liz started at hearing the voice and saw Alaura towel drying her hair, wearing black pants and a black v-neck.

''You remember how Master Ichigen taught us all about spells and seals from the ancient world? I was just thinking how it's funny-because all of it is real and before we never would have thought it was.'' Liz smiled.

Alaura looked off thoughtfully. ''Huh, you know if those teachings were real and not just myths of ancient times they could come in handy for us. Maybe we could find out more about my seal?"

Liz nodded. ''That's what I was going to do, call Kuroh the nerd and ask if he had found out more about the seal.''

''Call him that and he'll hang up.''

''He knows I love him, but really maybe we should start practicing again. Go back home and pick up the books?"

Alaura crawled into the bed and sat next to her cross legged. ''Sure, after all of this we'll take everyone to go see our hometown. Explaining how we grew up would be easier.''

Liz laughed before smiling softly and playing with the end of her shirt. ''Maybe…maybe I could show you Jacob's grave. I don't think much of graves, but I know you appreciate where someone is left behind. ''

A few moments went by in silence and Liz looked up to see Alaura looking out the window, lips up while her eyes were clouded. The azure eyed girl winced; maybe she shouldn't have-

''I'd like that. I know he's with me wherever I go, but seeing where his body was laid would be nice.'' The girl looked towards her and grinned. ''Thank you.''

Liz blinked before smiling back.

''Now, why were you waiting for me weirdo?"

Liz's cheeks burst into flames as she remembered why she had been here in the first place. ''Uh, well Yata and I are going on a date tonight and I was hoping you could help me get ready. Would-''

''YEEEEEEEES!"

Liz wondered if she had made the right choice.

Two hours later and after much Alaura plucking and pulling, Liz had to blink at her reflection. It had hurt, but sometimes she just didn't care what she looked like. There was nothing wrong with that-but never go in un prepped to Alaura and ask her to primp you up.

Alaura had made the ends of her hair into soft curls, and had pulled out a dress from her closet that was one of her favorites. The sleeves were loose and sheer, while the neckline was sweetheart. It flared out at her waist and stopped mid thigh but slightly poofed out that if she twirled it would move out around her. It was a light teal, with a thin white leather belt to clasp at her waist.

She was wearing white flats that had a slight heel, but not too much that she still couldn't run in them. Her makeup was light and almost nonexistent, her lips painted in a gloss while her eyes were lined with liner.

To put it simply…she thought she looked bomb as fuck.

''Well? Do we like it? Do we hate it? Tell me if you're not comfy and I'll help-''

''Weirdo stop, this is great.'' Liz cut off her friend's worrying with a laugh and moved side to side to see how she looked.

Wow…

''Oh thank the gods! You were worrying me!" Alaura sagged in relief before checking her phone and pulling on her hand through the door. ''Alright, it's ten till seven! I wonder if Yata is here yet-''

''Awwww Yata looks so cute!''

''Our little virgin is all grown up!"

"Careful now Rikio, he still can't get rid of that blush when they hold hands!"

''You're right, he'd probably get a nose bleed if Liz even-''

''Hey! Enough shit talking you fucks!" Yata exclaimed, mark on his forehead as he waved his fist threateningly."

"Awww but you're so easy Yata!" Bando laughed.

''Ahem.''

The guys froze as they turned to see Alaura at the stairs, arms crossed as she smirked evilly at them.

"Oh fuck…'' Akagi whispered.

''Now guys, don't dog on these two just cause they get loving and you don't.'' Alaura laughed at the drop of their faces, before moving to show Liz. ''I present, Lizenne Mizure ready for a date on the town!"

They both saw eachother at the same time, and both teens felt the floor drop out from under them.

Ever since Yata had given Liz his beanie he had to go get a new one, but it seemed he had left it back at his place. His chestnut hair was still messy but she could tell he had tried to tame it. He was wearing a white button up and had rolled the sleeves, but the collar was loose as he left the top buttons undone. He was actually wearing dark wash jeans and Liz felt her face heat up.

Holy hot fuck Yata is hot as hell in his normal clothes but-!

Yata was having the same malfunction Liz was, his brain short fusing even more than it normally did.

Fuck.

Liz shifted and offered a weak wave. "Hey.''

''You-you…wow.'' Yata gulped and scratched the back of his head, chuckling awkwardly. "I mean-amazing. You uh, you look amazing.''

Blue eyes widened as she felt her cheeks lift as she smiled. ''So do you! Not that you don't all the time but-''

"Okay love birds we get it.'' Alaura interrupted their staring contest and shooed them out the door. ''Now get out of here and have fun! See you later!"

Watching the two leave Alaura shut the door, turning to see the guys smiling.

''What?"

''Have you always been motherly or is it just us?"

''I'll show you motherly! No eating my food for a damn month!"

Ignoring the complaints that followed her she walked over to the bar and sat down, taking the cup of coffee offered to her by Tatara. The two smiled as Rikio, Akagi, and Bando began a game of cards.

''You are you know.'' Tatara piped up, pulling her attention away as she lowered the cup.

''Huh?'' She tilted her head. "Am what?"

''Not so much motherly, but caring and protective. You probably don't mean to but it happens with the guys. It pops up when they do something stupid.'' Tatara said.

Alaura smiled and closed her eyes as she took another sip of the liquid. ''We did do a lot of stupid stuff growing up, and we got hurt a lot. It's only natural for me to worry.''

Feeling a weight on her shoulder she looked down to see Anna had rested her hand there. Crimson met chocolate as Anna smiled.

''I like it. It makes me feel safe, loved.''

Her eyes widened slightly before she laughed and wrapped an arm around the girl in a hug. "Thanks Anna. Alright, who wants to bet that the fancy restaurant they're trying out isn't even going to last to drinks?"

"What? Why would you say that?" Tatara asked, shocked.

Alaura laughed. ''Well they're not that kind of people. They're going to try and it'll be adorable but they'll do better somewhere where people don't judge what you eat.''

''Alright I'm in!''

''They'll last until appetizers!"

The smirk on Alaura's face made Tatara sweat drop. ''Yeah, you'll fit right on in.''

''No way!" Liz laughed as they walked to the restaurant, covering her mouth as the sound increased.

''Yeah!" Yata grinned and widened his arms dramatically. "The fucking horse was in the bar-but it was actually another strain! Mikoto was eyeing it and when he said he was hungry you wouldn't believe poor Anna's face.''

Liz's shoulders shook as Yata held open the door for her to the restaurant. ''I'd be mortified too!''

A waiter escorted them to the table and Yata rushed forward before she could grab her chair, pulling it out and smiling nervously.

Liz chewed the inside of her cheek before sitting down and flashing a smile in thanks. The teen blushed and went to sit in his chair…but missed and fell on his ass.

"Yata!'' she looked over and saw him grumbling. ''Are you okay?"

He waved her off and sat down, actually making it in the chair this time and crossed his arms and leaned over the table. ''Tch.''

A fond smile stretched over her lips before she reached over the table and rested a hand on his arm. He looked questioningly at the offer before at her.

''I'm ah, I'm nervous too.'' She started, averting her eyes before inhaling deeply and meeting his eyes. She gulped at the wide eyed stare and wondered if her mouth would blurt out random thouughts tonight. She hoped she didn't.

''But…I'm glad you asked me out, really.''

Yata blinked at her, seeing her smiling tentatively. She was nervous too? Thank the fucking universe, his nerves were currently trying to choke him and it took all his power to avoid shouting out at random strangers.

He slipped his hand into hers and looked down at them, seeing how while her skin was smooth he could see fading scars. She had trained her whole life to become strong she told him, swearing to protect her family when they couldn't protect themselves.

He admired that about her: her desire to push past her limits no matter how terrified she was of what was on the other side. Yata couldn't believe how smart she was-how fucking funny and good she was and she for some reason liked him.

''I'm glad you said yes,'' he got out. ''I thought I was going to pass out honestly."

He laughed and Liz smiled prettily at him, making his breath catch and causing his eyes to widen.

''Are you two…ready for drinks?" A snotty voice interrupted their moment and Yata growled, turning his narrowed eyes on their waiter who was dressed up and looking ready to be done with them.

''Way to ruin the moment assface!" Yata snapped.

Liz slapped her hands over her mouth to cover her snort, but it slipped through and soon Yata stopped his glaring to join in on her laugh. The waiter looked at them in distaste and Yata stood up abruptly, offering his hand out for Liz to take.

''Let's blow this lame ass place. ''Yata scoffed and squeezed the hand that was now in his grasp.

Liz let Yata lead her out of the restaurant, looking at the back of his head and feeling light on her feet as they walked along the streets doing random things. Yata stopped them at a costume shop and scared the crap out of the owner with a dragon's mask, their screams and laughter getting them kicked out for being 'nuisances.'

Liz felt good-amazing really. Her sides hurt from laughing and her breath was coming out in pants because of much they were running around. Yata had bought her and him rice balls to keep them going and before she knew it it had been four hours since they left Homra.

''Come on! I so had that guy!" Yata jeered, moving his fists back and forth in an imitation of an asshole who tried kicking them out of an arcade.

Liz threw her head back in laughter and clutched at her side. ''I didn't doubt you for a moment Yata!"

Chuckling Yata inhaled deeply before a throwing an arm round her shoulders and halting.

Liz froze.

Holy shit, holy shit, holy shit!

Her brain felt like it was on malfunction mode when the scent of him began strong. He smelt of soap but there was an undertone of what she remembered to be the fields of home: fresh sunshine, clear skies, and the grass beneath her.

Calling upon the courage she knew was in her body she shifted to be closer to him and lowered her eyes, biting the inside of cheek to keep from grinning like an idiot.

Yata was grinning like an idiot.

They walked the rest of the way back to the bar like that, talking softly and enjoying the other's voice and presence. Liz thought back to when she told Yata Kuroh was her foster brother and he had been in denial.

He said, and quote, "There is no way an ass fucker like him could be related to you at all!"

Liz had snorted up her lemonade and they had to pause as she died from the burning sensation.

Finally they made it to the bar and entered, Yata holding open the door for her and smiling lightly. Liz was about to walk through before an idea struck her and she stopped.

Oh lords give me strength.

Not wishing to lose her resolve she shut her eyes close and gripped Yata's cheeks in her palms, not giving him a chance to react as she planted her lips on his.

Keep in mind the bar door was wide open and it had been filled with fellow clansmen-now imagine those clansmen who had been laughing staring dumbly at the scene in front of them.

A slight blush rose in Anna's cheeks as she looked away. ''I guess the date went well.''

Yata wished his hands would move, wished any part of him could react! He was dumbstruck, his eyes which had been wide open in shock fluttering close as he gently kissed her back. Her lips were soft beneath his and he felt like his heart was about to burst in his chest.

Liz was cheering herself on internally for actually going through with what she wanted. His lips were warm and smooth, molding against hers perfectly but all too soon, she had to pull away for air.

''I had a great time tonight Yata.'' She smiled and tried to avoid her stutter coming through.

Yata looked down at her and grinned shyly. "Me too.''

She pulled away, waving weakly at the shocked crowd before racing up the stairs and slamming the door shut.

''Well well…'' A black haired boy grinned. ''Looks like Yata got lucky with Liz, what all did you-''

THUD!

''Don't fucking say anything!" Yata growled, glaring at the guys around him and raising his fist threateningly. ''If I hear one word about Liz come out from you guys I'll kick the shit out of you!''

"Woah, take it easy Yata!'' The guy groaned from the floor. "I was just wondering if you did it or not-''

THWACK!

The blush on Yata's face was flaming as he shook. ''No we didn't! And if we did it wouldn't be any of your business! It would be between me and my girl only, not you guys!"

Rikio smirked and raised his hand. "Hey Yata?''

"What?! You got something to say? I'll beat your ass!''

'' No no…it's just, you called her your girl.''

Yata's lips formed a small 'o' before he crossed his arms and looked up and away. ''What of it? She is! And don't you fuckers forget it, if you say one bad thing about her you answer to me!"

Upstairs leaning against a closed door Liz bit the inside of her cheek, eyes bright as she hugged herself and laughed under her breath.

Yata…

Mikoto rested on his side, breathing deeply as he slept. The sounds of the other prisoners bickering did little to keep him from resting. His mind had been racing all day today, from the releasing of the video to Munakata's double visits and him telling him to give up his position as king.

He couldn't do that…he had something to do and he was going to complete it. He had to erase the colorless King from this world to protect the others.

It was subtle at first, the change he felt in the air. But he could feel it and that's what was odd for him. He rolled over only to stop. Amber eyes widened as he brought himself into a sitting position, seeing the cloaked figure step through the door.

Mikoto stood as she walked over to him. "So…how did you get in here, hmm Alaura?"

The woman slipped off the cloak and looked up at him, the moon's light their only source of seeing each other. Brown eyes glinted mischievously as she cupped his cheek in her palm. His eyes closed as he leaned into her touch.

He would allow himself this.

''Miss me? I need answers.''

Amber eyes opened slightly to see her looking at him determinedly and he smirked.

''Now what kind of guy would I be…if I didn't answer the questions of the lady who broke into a prison for me?"

A/N: Wooh! Yata and Liz make me so happy, they're cute they're cute. Alaura admits to the others about her demons, and she breaks into Mikoto's prison?

Until next time!

Review, eat amazing food, and have a great day/night!

-ScarlettWriter

PREVIEW OF CHAPTER 10: So it begins

''Mikoto.'' Anna whispered suddenly.

Their heads whipped around as Alaura's heart pounded in her chest while she watched one of Anna's marbles burn bright and float slowly.

Mikoto had found the Colorless King.